Since 2017, The Whithorn Trust has been the key organisation developing the long distance walking route, known as the Whithorn Way, including new segments of off road path, signage, a walker’s app (The Whithorn Way available on Android and the App store) and a guidebook : our visitor centre is the point where walkers and pilgrims on the long distance Whithorn Way walking route may claim their certificates and stamps and special discounts on food and drink. 

The Whithorn Way is a 155 mile walking and cycling route, which follows much of the westerly pilgrimage route to Whithorn, travelled by pilgrims for well over 1300 years. At its peak round 1500, the shrine attracted pilgrims from Scotland, England and beyond, who traced a network of sea and land routes to Whithorn. St Ninian became the favoured saint of the Royal House of Stuart, which further stimulated national devotion.

Now you can walk ( or cycle ) one of these ancient routes  – the Whithorn Way – for yourself, or try out just one of its thirteen richly historic segments.  Our films give you highlights from the Cathedral at Glasgow through 155 miles of rambling back roads, quiet cycle paths, or stunning beach walks, to Whithorn. A new footpath has been opened, after funding was granted to our partners at All Roads Lead to Whithorn, from Glasserton to the saint’s reputed retreat at St Ninian’s Cave and beyond, adding further off-road miles. Click to see our 3D reconstructions of the historic splendour of many of the churches and monasteries along the route. The Way has been mapped and walked by Walk the Whithorn Way volunteers.